Today we’d like to introduce you to Aaron Jackson.
Hi Aaron, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My mother was a huge influence in terms of music and the arts in my childhood, introducing me to music at a young age to the likes of Stevie Wonder, The Jackson 5, Phil Collins and more. She always made it a point to heavily invest in any interest I had and having that full support in my creative journey was pivotal. I was obsessed with cartoons and superheroes as a kid, such much so that I created my own comic book series in fifth grade. As I got older and more involved with school I continued to draw and write stories but it became less of a priority in my life. I started college in 2020 majoring in Graphic Design, but quickly fell in love with Photography, eventually leading me to Video Production. After discovering those artistic mediums, my work quickly grew into a small business, which I’ve been running for the past three and a half years.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There are many struggles to running a freelance business. What has been most challenging to me has been, connecting with the right clients, navigating the dynamic of creating art vs content, prioritizing passion projects, and maintaining my integrity as an artist. However, the ability to create and connect with people in my community outweigh the stress of running a business so I choose not to focus on the negative.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My business has evolved from a photography service to a production company working with clients that care deeply about intentional visuals. I’ve had experience with a wide variety of clients in various industries, and I’ve found that in every industry there is a need to blend impactful art and storytelling with technical marketing. I enjoy living in-between those worlds and finding the right mix of both.
Photography is a deep foundation for my business, I built my freelancing career doing lifestyle shoots, commercial work for businesses, event recap etc.
I excel at studio portraits that emphasize creative direction and capturing an emotion viewers can feel. I love experimenting with lighting techniques that make my photos feel more dramatic and intimate. Although, as I began working with more clients that needed commercials and video campaigns I started advertising my video services more. I now heavily lean into my role as a creative director and cinematographer.
This year I’m proud to have been able to shoot the cover of the National Brewers Association’s March/April Issue, which highlighted the first black owned brewery in Pennsylvania. Another opportunity that I’m proud of this year was a partnership with the Sports Tech company; PongBot. I’ve directed and shot several campaigns for them and I look forward to continue creating with them.
I am a firm believer that every artist brings something unique to the table, whether that is personal experiences, or their unique taste. What separates me is my attention to detail and care for creative visuals. I work hard to study lighting, composition, color grading and the basics of visual storytelling in order to give a premium but personal feeling. I like every artist carry my experiences with me, which aid in how I choose to approach creating.
I want readers to know that I am not the most skilled artist in my field but I care deeply about the craft. There are so many great creatives in this industry that I admire and look to for inspiration. I believe if you create with authenticity and study the fundamentals of your craft you’re going to make great pieces of art.
Moving with intention and precision is the key to growth. I’ve found that nurturing talent with knowledge and practice is the defining factor to success in any field. I want readers and potential clients to know that before I start thinking of shot selection, wardrobe or camera equipment, I listen to the story and from there use my skills to translate that to the screen.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
What matters to me the most is supporting my family and community while also leaving an impact. My perspective on life and my craft is largely shaped by those around me. People in my life have invested so much into me, I believe thats why I am where I am today. I have a great support system and I hope to be able to give back.
I also think every artist wants their art to live on and inspire and I’m not different. I think about all the movies and music albums Ive experienced and carried with me. Whether those works comforted me in darker times, or pushed me to grow and reflect, I hope the things I create can do the same.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://aijproductionsllc.mypixieset.com
- Instagram: aij.photography
